Volkswagen has not confirmed whether the engine is indeed a VR6 but, judging by the configuration of the intake and exhaust systems, it seems likely to be the case.

The new six-cylinder engine, which has a single cylinder head and a claimed 15-degree angle between its rows of cylinders, is said to displace 3.0 litres. Thanks to direct fuel injection and twin turbochargers, its output is stated to be a substantial 496bhp and 413lb ft.

It's reputedly set to see service in future models, which may include high-performance versions of the Volkswagen CC and the recently unveiled CrossBlue coupé — although the engine will most likely be detuned for economy, emissions and drivability reasons.

A senior Porsche engineer confirmed that the new Volkswagen engine was a narrow-angle VR6, but that it wasn't in any way related to new engines being developed for the Porsche Macan.

It's not yet known whether the new unit is a development of an existing VR6 or an all-new engine, or if it will be available in UK models, but it is thought that its smaller capacity - compared to recent VR6 units - is a result of a Chinese-market specific tax break.

Volkswagen has a long history of popular VR6 engines; the first were developed in the late 1980s and introduced in 1991 in the Corrado and Passat. Later, the engine made its way into the Golf.

The new Golf Design Vision concept, which is equipped with a transversely mounted 496bhp version of the new VR6, is capable of accelerating from 0-62mph in a supercar-rivalling 3.9sec. Its top speed is 190mph.

It says in the article that it's smaller capacity compared to recent Vr6 engines is a result of a Chinese market specific tax break, correct me if I am wrong but wasnt the previous VR6 a 2.8 whereas this is a 3.0 so how is that smaller and another thing, what other VR6 engines have there been as I thought VAG were the only company that did them.

It says in the article that it's smaller capacity compared to recent Vr6 engines is a result of a Chinese market specific tax break, correct me if I am wrong but wasnt the previous VR6 a 2.8 whereas this is a 3.0 so how is that smaller and another thing, what other VR6 engines have there been as I thought VAG were the only company that did them.

The last VR6 used in the Golf R32 was 3.2 litre. Original Golf VR6 2.8. Corrado VR6 2.9.

I can't claim to have driven many performance cars, however, I have driven a Golf VR6. It was a great car and always seemed a bit more special than the opposition. The lovely low-down torque and engine noise still sticks in my memory. Shame VW never continued with it after the R36.

Whilst no golf need 500bhp, a 6 pot petrol engine would make the Golf a whole lot more appealing (if not attached to a DSG). And it would give VW a car without any obvious competition. Come on VW, this is what you should be making